Barefoot and Minimalist Shoe Coaching

The following is a detailed explanation of the
coaching services offered by the Barefoot Running University. In
addition to the programs listed here, we also offer barefoot and
minimalist shoe running clinics. Clinic dates and locations will
be listed in the red "Clinics" of our site.

Before considering individual coaching, please read
our "How to Start" section. Many
people are able to learn to run barefoot or in minimalist shoes with
little guidance. If you give it a shot and are not successful,
consider attending a clinic. It is cheaper than individual
coaching and will help most runners learn the necessary skills. If
you need more help after that point, then consider individual coaching.

Of course, if you have the money to spend, are
especially anti-social, or prefer one-on-one coaching to a group
setting, then the individual coaching options may be perfect!

BFR 101: A Brief Introduction to Barefoot /
Minimalist Shoe Running

This level consists of a single session to introduce
the concept of barefoot / minimalist shoe running. A brief
explanation and demonstration of technique will be given, followed by
the opportunity to try the techniques. This level is intended to
determine if you would be interested in continuing to experiment with
barefoot running.

BFR 102: An Introduction to
Barefoot / Minimalist Shoe Running.

This level is designed for the runner that is serious
about either adding barefoot / minimalist shoe running to their
already-existing training schedule or the first step towards becoming a
full-time barefoot / minimalist shoe runner. The method I use is
simple. I follow a five step process.

Step one- Assess prior experience.
This includes running experience and barefoot experience. This
also includes a waiver that indicates your doctor has determined you
are physically able to participate in this program.

Step two- Start spending as much
non-running time barefoot as possible.

Step three- Receive instruction on
proper barefoot running form. This step includes video
analysis of your gait both in shoes and barefoot. This step
also includes learning barefoot drills and crosstraining exercises
to help strengthen and support your barefoot running ability.

This level is designed for the more advanced barefoot
runner that is interested in running road races barefoot. Runners
will receive instruction on setting up training schedules and maximizing
form to prevent injuries in race conditions.

BFR 301: Barefoot Trail Running

This level is designed for the more advanced barefoot
runner that is interested in running or racing on technical trails that
also may include hills. Runners will receive instruction on trail
running technique and skills.

BFR 401: Extreme Barefoot Running

This level is designed for barefoot runners that are
interested in running very high mileage, marathons, ultramarathons,
night running, or running in extreme temperatures or other conditions.

Currently, we are only
accepting a limited number of clients due to a heavy schedule. If you
are interested in receiving barefoot instruction, please contact us
here. Due to our schedule, we will
only be accepting in-person clients in the greater Grand Rapids metro
area (West Michigan). If you live outside the area, we may be able to
travel depending on the flexibility of our schedule.

We offer several levels of barefoot instruction. Each level is based on
previous barefoot experience. If you are new to barefoot running, we
would suggest beginning with a "Level Zero" introduction session. This
will determine if you have the interest to continue a more rigorous
program. For experienced barefoot runners, we will personally work with
you to assess the appropriate level to begin with.

Fees:

* BFR 101- ($75) Includes one 90 minute
session; designed for new barefoot or minimalist shoe runners. You may
bring two other people with you for this session to share the cost!

* BFR 102- ($500) Includes eight 50 minute
sessions; designed to teach the new barefoot or minimalist shoe runner
the necessary elements required to begin without injury. You may add one
other person to these sessions. Individual sessions may be
scheduled for $65

* BFR 201, 301, and 401- (cost varies
depending on goals and number of sessions) In depth work to develop
barefoot running skills. You may add one other person to these sessions.

* Small Group Presentation- ($300) This
lecture/discussion session is intended to cover materials covered in the
"BRF 101" instructional session. The session takes approximately 60-90
minutes with a question and answer/hands-on instruction session
afterwards. There is a 20 person limit to this presentation.

* Large Group Presentation (Cost varies
based on size of audience) This is similar to the small group
presentation without the hands-on instruction afterwards.

* Clinics (Cost varies) 2-3 hour sessions
similar to small group presentation with added information and hands-on
instruction. Clinic schedules will be posted in the "Clinics"
section of our website.

Special discount: If you or an immediate family member
is a active, retired, or reserve member of the military, a police
officer, firefighter, nurse, or teacher, you are eligible for a 10%
discount on all fees! Also, if you are experiencing a financial hardship
the would make payment difficult, please contact me. My ultimate goal is
to help people learn to run barefoot. I strongly believe cost should
never impede the free flow of information.